The
GeneSense genetics resource was conceived in 2003 as part of a teaching fellowship
project at the University
of Plymouth. The aim of the project; a collaboration between academics
and specialist genetics nurses, was twofold; 1.
To provide an online resource to aid studies and continuing professional
development in human genetics amongst students and healthcare practitioners. 2.
To investigate the role of truly collaborative action research using all
stakeholders to change syllabi and curricula as directed by government and
professional bodies. The
Genesense project was inspired by the draft report "Fit for Practice
in the Genetics Era: A Competence based education framework for nurses, midwives
and health visitors". The final report of this year long project commissioned
by the Department of Health,was
published in 2004. It defines a framework
of
core competencies
in genetics that all nurses, midwives and health visitors will need for contemporary
practice. This
work resulted in seven competency standards that are applicable at all levels
of practice. The Genesense team have used these competencies to devise learning
outcomes at academic levels 1, 2 and 3. These outcomes form the
basis of the learning element of our educational resource. To
meet the competency standards, practitioners should be able to: 2.
Appreciate the importance of sensitivity in tailoring genetic information
and services to clients' culture, knowledge and language. 6.
Recognise the limitation of one's own genetic expertise. The full list of learning outcomes can be seen here At
the heart of GeneSense are a number of fictional and part-fictional case
studies, which
are used to provide a springboard for the personal learning needs of those
using the resource. We have used a life cycle approach for
our case studies,
largely because age
is one of the main things typically noticed when first encountering patients/clients.
We believe the life cycle approach also promotes a better understanding
and integration of the underlying biological subject material. Whilst
our primary focus is an educational resource for healthcare professionals,
we are happy for all interested learners to use GeneSense to further their
knowledge in human genetics. YOUR
CHANCE TO GET INVOLVED As
a user of this resource, we need your help to make it the best possible
learning resource for students of the healthcare professions. Whoever you
are; healthcare professional, academic, student or user of healthcare services,
you can get involved. If you have any ideas on how we can develop our resource
please contact us through
our feedback page (feedback buttons are found at the bottom of every
page).
1.
Identify clients who might benefit from genetic information and services.
3.
Uphold the rights of all clients to informed decision making and voluntary
action.
4. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the role of genetic and
other factors in maintaining health and in the manifestation, modification
and prevention of disease expression to underpin effective practice.
5.
Demonstrate a knowledge and understanding of the utility and limitations
of genetic testing and information.
7.Obtain and communicate credible current information about genetics
for self, clients and colleagues.
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